The Point has opened on Four Mile Creek in Freeport. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors
Boat launch and parking available on 4 Mile Creek
A new park has opened on Four Mile Creek in Freeport. Known by the locals as ‘The Point,’ the park now boasts more than 20 parking spaces and several boat slips. In addition, there are restroom facilities and walkways that wrap around the waterfront.
“This park has been 18 years in the works,” said Mickey Marse, mayor of Freeport.
The Governor Stone is currently docked at The Boat in Fort Walton Beach. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors
In addition, a custom-designed longer slip that runs parallel to the creek has been provided which will be the future home of The Governor Stone.
Originally built in 1877, the Governor Stone is in the national historic records as a national landmark. The schooner is slated to arrive at The Point in February.
The Friends of The Governor Stone have been working to get the schooner ready for her new home, and are hoping to sail her to Freeport as soon as the slip is fitted with lighting and electricity.
Currently, The Governor Stone is docked at The Boat Shipyard in Fort Walton Beach where she is getting repairs done by The Friends of The Governor Stone, and the dock master at The Boat, Keith Morris. Morris is an experienced shipwright from Tennington Lock outside of London, England.
Virgie Thompson, president of The Friends of Gov. Stone is looking forward to finally bringing the schooner to a permanent home. The group has been working with the City of Freeport on getting the schooner docked at the new park.
The Friends have great plans for the Governor Stone. With her new home in Freeport, the group’s plans include sailing her in her original glory, and sharing the schooner’s colorful history.
Directions:
Take State Road 20 and turn south on CR83A across from City Hall. Turn left on Four Mile Road (Shipyard Road). Follow the road past Freeport Shipyard. The park is at the end on “The Point.”
